NDL: S31W3 - Ole Miss (28) at SMU (45)
SMU Gets Off the Mat vs #23 Ole Miss
Article By: DALLAS, TEXAS -- SMU is in the midst of their worst losing streak in recent history. Dating back to S30, the SMU Mustangs have lost five straight after starting NDL S31 with losses to #20 Central Michigan and at #21 Auburn.
So what better remedy to a losing streak then perhaps the toughest test of the streak yet, undefeated #23 Ole Miss.
Up the challenge the Mustangs were however. SMU QB Preston Stone was lights out leading SMU to touchdowns twice in the first quarter. One touchdown went to WR Jake Bailey and the second went to HB Brashard Smith on a screen pass where Smith would not be denied.
The real indicator the losing streak was about to be snapped however is when SMU came up with their first forced turnover of the season. SS Johnathan McGill stepped in front of a Jaxson Dart pass and housed it to give SMU the 21-7 lead late in the first quarter.
In the second half, the SMU Mustangs revved it down in terms of pace trying to keep the ball away from an Ole Miss offense that had deep threats all over the field. However, SMU did not turn down any efficiency. While moving slower the Mustangs still added two touchdowns in the second half and NDL S30 Lou Groza winner Collin Rogers added his third field goal of the year as Ole Miss look to threaten with big plays but couldnt get the SMU offense off the field.
SMU converted 8/12 third downs in the game and went 1/1 on fourth down which was a HB Brashard Smith rushing score.
SMU improves to 1-2 on the season with rival TCU next on the schedule before ACC play begins.
Undefeated #23 Ole Miss Falls to SMU
Article By: In what was anticipated to be a decisive matchup, the #23 Ole Miss Rebels faced the Southern Methodist University (SMU) Mustangs in a game that would shake up the college football landscape. Despite entering the game with an undefeated record and high hopes, the Rebels were unable to maintain their winning streak, falling to SMU with a final score of 28-45.
The game kicked off with a high-voltage atmosphere, as the Rebels aimed to prove their ranking was no fluke. Ole Miss started strong, showcasing their potent offense led by their dynamic quarterback. Early in the first quarter, they managed to put points on the board, giving their fans a reason to cheer. However, it quickly became evident that SMU was ready for the challenge.
The Mustangs, known for their explosive playing style, showed versatility in their offense, effectively mixing the run and the pass. Their quarterback was particularly impressive, navigating the field with poise and precision. With each drive, SMU’s confidence grew as they answered Ole Miss's early score with a flurry of points. Before the first half ended, the Mustangs had taken a commanding lead, leaving the Rebels scrambling to catch up.
As the second half unfolded, Ole Miss looked to regain momentum. They made strategic adjustments, attempting to exploit gaps in SMU’s defense. However, the Mustangs’ defense proved formidable, disrupting Ole Miss's rhythm and forcing turnovers that would prove costly. SMU capitalized on every opportunity, widening their lead and leaving Ole Miss in a desperate position.
The Rebels showcased resilience, managing to score a couple of touchdowns in the second half, but it was too little too late. SMU's offense continued to fire on all cylinders, and the outcome seemed inevitable as the game moved into the final minutes. By the time the final whistle blew, the scoreboard reflected a surprising 28-45 loss for Ole Miss, marking an unexpected turn in their season.
Coach BossRanger expressed disappointment in the post-game press conference. He acknowledged the need for his team to regroup and focus on the fundamentals moving forward. "We need to learn from this experience," BossRanger stated. "Sometimes a loss can teach you more than a win."
Despite this setback, Ole Miss remains a talented team with a potent offense and skilled players. The loss to SMU serves as a reminder of the competitive nature of college football, where any team can emerge victorious on any given day. As the Rebels look ahead, they will undoubtedly aim to bounce back stronger and reclaim their status in the rankings.
In conclusion, the defeat against SMU marks a pivotal moment for #23 Ole Miss. While disappointment may linger in the air, it also creates an opportunity for growth and resilience as the team navigates the remainder of the season. Fans will be eager to see how the Rebels respond in their upcoming games, as they work to turn the page on this unexpected loss.